Dorset Wedding Venues: 15 Beautiful Choices in Dorset
Dorset is an idyllic spot to say 'I do' - here you'll find farms, castles, and even a water mill on our list of the best wedding venues in Dorset that are just waiting to be explored...
For a calm, picturesque, countryside celebration - Dorset wedding venues have just what you're after!
Dorset isn't just home to some of the best fossil-hunting spots in the world - it's also a great place to get hitched. With no cities in this rural county, you'll find peace, tranquillity and absolute bliss in each and every one of these amazing wedding venues in Dorset - there's so many to choose from!
Whether you wish to pledge your love at an elegant seaside hotel wedding venue, a countryside wedding venue, or in a repurposed train carriage, this list is bound to feature a Dorset wedding venue that meets your needs.
Our picks range from the beautiful to the bizarre, so we have a feeling you will enjoy scrolling through our choices.
Dorset Wedding Venues: 15 Spots That Will Take Your Breath Away
To help you narrow your choices down, we've scoured the countryside to find only the very best wedding venues Dorset has to offer. They feature perfect sandy beaches, unspoilt views, enchanting ambience...need we go on? These are our top picks for Dorset weddings.
1. Mapperton, Beaminster
For couples who want a grand yet homely wedding venue in Dorset, Mapperton is an exclusive and romantic country house steeped in charm. Complete with an orangery, barn coach house, garden pavilion and croquet lawn, where you choose to host your ceremony and reception is completely up to your personal style and taste. Mapperton has a space to cater to all!
It's ideal if you're struggling to cut your guest list down as it's a large capacity wedding venue which can accommodate up to 400 guests in an outdoor marquee, plus you'll have access to the venue the day before the wedding if you have friends and family travelling from afar.
They have over 100 beds available so lots of people can sleep on-site and they also partner with a few outstanding local providers should you require even more space.
2. Stockbridge Farm Barn, Sherborne
When it comes to rustic wedding venues, can you really beat getting hitched on a working farm? Stockbridge Farm Barn in the glorious Dorset countryside is the ultimate space for relaxed couples to celebrate both their wedding ceremony and reception in a casual and cool setting.
Every little detail has been thought of at Stockbridge Farm to make your day magical - from the festoon and soft up-lighting to the gorgeous flower wheels that suspend from traditional wooden beams.
This Dorset wedding venue can comfortably accommodate 180 seated guests, and even more if you opt for an adjoining marquee, but our favourite spot is the restored Milking Parlour. Commonly used as a room to get ready in before the ceremony, the stone walled building is cosy and chic.
This Dorset wedding venue even comes complete with an 18ft. wooden dance floor so they'll be no excuse for your guests not to party the night away!
3. Canford School, Wimborne
Decadent, elegant and regal are the words of choice when it comes to describing Canford School. With origins dating back to the Domesday Book, this historic Grade I listed building is situated on the banks of the River Stour giving it an impressive fairy-tale feel.
If you're planning a religious Dorset ceremony, the 14th-century church nearby provides the ideal spot, but if not, the Long Gallery boasts beautiful wood panelling and is a lovely alternative.
You'll also have exclusive access to the grounds on your wedding day, so when you're not taking the opportunity to take gorgeous wedding photographs by the water features and Sunken Lawn, you'll be exploring the gardens with your partner and guests.
4. Abbots Court, Winterborne Kingston
Soon-to-be newlyweds who are after a rural celebration will surely be delighted by what Dorset wedding venue Abbots Court has to offer. Featuring elegant event spaces, refined décor, and diligent, dedicated event staff, this Dorset gem has everything you need for a unique and unforgettable wedding.
Abbots Court can set the scene for up to 150 evening guests, making it suitable for small and large gatherings. Not only does the property provide exceptional wedding coordination services, it also boasts a Victorian-style farmhouse with nine bedrooms where you and your loved ones can enjoy an overnight stay.
5. Highcliffe Castle, Christchurch
Highcliffe Castle is a Dorset venue fit for royalty. The Grade I listed castle wedding venue is seriously breath-taking in stature - so much so that you'll be hard pressed to find a more majestic backdrop to take your wedding photos in front of, and that's before you've even stepped foot inside.
It serves as a lovely, romantic spot to take a few moments alone with your new spouse after you've exchanged vows. With exposed brick walls and spacious high ceilings, the State Dining Room can host up to 80 guests for an intimate celebration, or if you have a larger guest list there's the Great Hall which can hold over 100 people.
It has fabulous stained-glass windows that create a magical ambience as light shines through. What's more, this spectacular Dorset wedding venue takes full advantage of its coastal Dorset location, with access down to a beautiful sandy beach.
READ MORE: 40 of the Most Majestic Castle Wedding Venues in the UK
6. Marshwood Manor, Bridport
There's something so magical about being surrounded by nature on your wedding day and Marshwood Manor in the Dorset countryside is a dreamy outdoor wedding venue that offers couples just that and more. One of our favourite spaces to exchange your vows has got to be the woodland bower.
Able to accommodate 80 seated and 20 standing guests, they'll cross a tranquil stream via a quaint bridge before taking their place to witness your special moment under a canopy of trees.
If you're planning a festival-style wedding, the wildflower studded hay meadow at this woodland wedding venue is a picturesque choice with plenty of space for a marquee that can hold up to 250 guests. As the evening draws in, the gravelled Courtyard is a cosy space complete with an outdoor bar and fire-pit area. It makes a great place to listen to a band in the company of your friends and family.
7. The Station Kitchen, Bridport
Next stop? Wedded bliss! The Station Kitchen in Bridport is a super unique wedding venue for couples seeking an alternative setting for their nuptials. Once a WW1-era train carriage, this hidden gem has been transformed into a vibrant and eye-catching venue with charming facilities.
The Station Kitchen is perfect for intimate occasions and can accommodate up to 40 guests. To complete your unique wedding day experience, the team can cook you a meal that features West Country products and traditional British recipes. They look forward to talking to you all about your vision, and will pull out all the stops to make it a reality!
READ MORE: BYOB No Corkage Wedding Venues
8. Tithe Barn, Symondsbury
Nestled in the quaint village of Symondsbury in West Dorset lies Tithe Barn - a whimsical barn wedding venue combining rustic romance with contemporary cool. We're talking stone features and exposed oak beams with floor-to-ceiling glass entrances and a wooden dance floor.
The barn has a capacity to seat up to 150 guests, plus it's a wedding venue with accommodation ranging from luxury cottages to farmhouses for your loved ones to stay the night.
If you're getting married in the warmer months, or even if you're lucky enough to have a smattering of snow, we recommend taking your wedding photographs in the courtyard and gardens. It's a lovely place to relax and mingle with your guests before tucking into a delicious hog roast, buffet or three-course meal.
READ MORE: 27 of the Best Barn Wedding Venues in the UK
9. Chedington Weddings, Beaminster
West Dorset is home to an 'Area of Outstanding Beauty' so is it any surprise that a wedding venue there made its way onto our list? Say hello to Chedington Weddings, a Dorset wedding venue located in West Axnoller Farm.
Situated within a secluded valley and with 100 acres of picturesque countryside on its doorstep, it's the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy your special day. But that's not to say it hasn't got its fair share of luxuries too. How do hot tubs, indoor pools, steam rooms and saunas sound?
Whether you marry under the outside pergola, or head to the modern converted barn to say 'I do', you won't be disappointed with the setting that awaits you. Plus, there's enough room to dine with 220 of your loved ones under a whimsical marquee. With no neighbours around for miles (unless you count the horses) you can be as loud as you like.
READ MORE: Luxurious Wedding Venues Worth Splashing Out On
10. St Giles House, Knowlton
Brimming with rich history and rustic charm, St Giles House in Knowlton has an air of intrigue that sets it apart from the rest. This romantic Dorset wedding venue is defined by its classic-meets-contemporary charm, while its old-world architectural details will be fascinating to your history-loving guests.
You'll be given exclusive access to St Giles House's facilities from 10 am until midnight, giving you plenty of time to celebrate your nuptials. Bookings also include a two-night stay in a 17th-century Riding House situated on the grounds. What better way to round off your once-in-a-lifetime celebration?
11. Sopley Mill, Christchurch
For a wedding day that's like no other, why not consider a unique wedding venue such as Sopley Mill? This repurposed watermill maintains original features like gorgeous oak beams, is completely private and is flanked by the River Avon on both sides - it doesn't get much more peaceful than that.
Whether you choose to hire the building and create your own dream day, or you have some help from their amazing team to organise the day for you, you're bound to have an unforgettable celebration.
There are three main floors in the property (with a lift for easy access), complete with seating space for 100, a kitchen, dance floor, ceremony room, and a drinks area. In the summer months, you can make use of the huge terrace for alfresco drinks and canapés. There's no corkage charge at this stunning Dorset wedding venue so you're welcome to bring your own beverages!
12. The Kings Arms Hotel, Christchurch
The Kings Arm Hotel is a Dorset wedding venue unlike other wedding hotels in the area. It has a number of unique spaces, from historic to contemporary, that you can use for your ceremony and reception. We adore The King's Pavilion and The King's Priory Suite for indoor celebrations.
Boasting a private bar and a cool split-level design, The King's Priory Suite is ideal for your wedding breakfast and evening celebration, while the King's Pavilion overlooks the River Avon and castle ruins making it an idyllic setting for your ceremony.
Fancy incorporating the castle ruins into your wedding day? We don't blame you - they're seriously impressive! Head to the retired bowling green opposite the hotel for a beautiful outdoor ceremony space with views of the River Avon on one side and the castle on the other. What more could you ask for from a historic wedding venue like this one?
13. Wilkswood Wedding Venue Ltd, Swanage
Wilkswood Wedding Venue Ltd in Swanage is an ideal Dorset wedding venue for couples who dream of a day in the picturesque countryside. Home to acres of scenic and secluded space, this romantic getaway has a welcoming atmosphere that you and your guests will love. You can exchange your vows on the immaculate lawn before heading into the marquee to celebrate your reception.
The Wilkswood staff will work with you to develop a custom package that suits your specific needs. In terms of wedding suppliers, you are more than welcome to bring in your own choice of wedding entertainers, caterers, and photographers. Whether you plan on hosting an intimate or large-scale celebration, this outdoor wedding venue can set the scene for all manner of wedding types.
14. Hotel Miramar, Bournemouth
Ready for a little slice of heaven on Earth? Bournemouth's Hotel Miramar can provide the goods. Ever dreamt of exchanging your vows on an immaculate lawn that overlooks the sea? This beautiful coastal wedding venue can bring that vision to life!
Your experience here will not solely be defined by the scenic setting; the array of amenities and services will also impress you. The wedding package includes a complimentary overnight stay for you and your partner, access to a designer get-ready room, and the services of a professional wedding coordinator.
15. The Suncliff Hotel, Bournemouth
Luxury, romance, refinement: these are all words that can be used to describe The Suncliff Hotel in Bournemouth. From intimate ceremonies to large-scale reception celebrations, this charming Dorset wedding venue can provide the backdrop for a wide selection of wedding types. As your big day unfolds, the team will be working diligently to ensure that everything goes perfectly for you.
At The Suncliff Hotel, yours and your partner's happiness is the number one priority. With this in mind, the exceptional venue staff will go above and beyond to make your day as unique and memorable as possible. Following a memorable ceremony, a mouth-watering meal will then be provided courtesy of The Overcliff Pub and Kitchen, the hotel's on-site restaurant.
If you love the idea of sea views and sand on your wedding day, you need to check out these stunning coastal wedding venues.
